Stevenson Ridge is a 87-acre historical property in rural Spotsylvania. Nine antique cottages are available for overnight stays and optional breakfast. Weddings, corporate events, reunions, and other special events are available at the Riddick House and the Lodge. Visit www.stevensonridge.com for more information. This blog will keep you up to date on happenings at the Ridge, event ideas, and more! The blog is maintained by Managing Partner Jennifer Hawkins Mackowski—"Jenny"

Monday, October 25, 2010

Recently, we began requiring that wedding reception events must have a Day-Of Coordinator. We were blessed to have such a successful first wedding season... typically May-October. We worked with a variety of clients who had such different expectations and visions for their "perfect day". One thing remained constant however and that is that the weddings with coordinators run much more smoothly than those without. If you aren't in the wedding business, it is nearly impossible to anticipate those things that can, and do, go wrong. Whether it's running out of ice, forgetting the garter or a cake topper that has gone missing... coordinators will ease your worries and take care of these things without you even having to know about it. My wedding was less than a month ago and I don't know what I would have done without my wedding coordinator (and angel), Whitney. She ran around breathlessly through the evening making sure that I didn't have to know that we ran out of beef, that my tables had to be re-arranged and that the police paid us a visit for being a wee-bit too loud. I assumed the night went on without a hitch, and so I was one happy blushing bride.

I cannot stress enough the importance of having a coordinator for at least the day-of your wedding. You and your parents want to enjoy the day without having to run around and be liason between all of your vendors. The tasks that coordinators do can be suited to fit your personal needs. Common tasks that get overlooked: lighting all of the candles (it takes longer than you think), decorating your outdoor ceremony site, setting up the seating card table, making sure your DJ plays all of the songs you have requested, bringing your gifts to the correct car at the end of the night, giving final payments and gratuities to your vendors, calling taxis for your guests that can't drive home... and the list just goes on. Ask anyone who has hired a coordinator for their wedding, and most likely you will get "I couldn't have done it without her!".

Thursday, October 14, 2010

The newest addition to Stevenson Ridge is going to be our main Events Facility "The Lodge". Estimated to be completed in early Spring of 2011, the building will accommodate up to 200 guests. The Lodge keeps with Stevenson Ridge's concept of Restored Antique Homes; it will contain a salvaged 150 year old former Canadian Church. The salvaged Church will be intergrated into the new consturction so that the hand-hewn antique post & beam frame as well as the 25' cathedral ceiling will all be visible while attending events in the structure. There will be many modern additions to the antique structure one of which is a gas fire place at the head of where the original aisle would have ended. Just imagine where a couple would have been married 150 years ago, now will sit the ambiance and glow of warm fire light. Many new relationships can be commemorated in this perfect blending of the old and the new; the hope will be that all unions in this facility will blend as well.

Last night we had a successful Open House to launch our Preferred Vendor List. This list is just the beginning; as we continue to work with vendors and build relationships, our list will grow. All of our Preferred Vendors have worked with us in some capacity and we highly recommend them. They have proven their professionalism, hardwork, creativity and support of Stevenson Ridge. It is our pleasure to have to have these industry professionals on board.

About Me

Graduating from James Madison University, I moved back to Fredericksburg to launch Stevenson Ridge. With a passion for hospitality, I bring an enthusiasm to my job everyday as I meet new people and find new ways to exceed their expectations. Working with brides is one of my favorite things about my job... it is so rewarding to be part of such an important day in their lives.